Police and Fire encourage safe swimming

Summer is approaching, temperatures are rising and, soon enough, we will be looking for ways to cool off and keep the kiddos entertained.

Swimming pools, of course, are popular attractions but come with inherent risks that can be mitigated by taking the necessary precautions.

Las Cruces police and firefighters encourage swimming safety and recommend following these and other safety tips:

• Never leave children or elderly unsupervised in or near a swimming pool, hot tub or any body of water.
• Do not assume that other children, or another adult, will watch over your child’s safety.
• Do not consider anyone “drown proof” because they’ve had swimming lessons.
• Do not rely on flotation devices, such as Floaties, as a substitute for supervision.
• Keep rescue equipment easily accessible.
• Remove toys from pool after use so children are not tempted to reach for them.
• Refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs that limit or reduce reaction times.
• Remove pool covers completely before use and securely cover after each use.
• Properly secure or lock gates or doors that lead to pools and hot tubs.
• Avoid overzealous horseplay or roughhousing in or near water.
• Keep glass out of pool areas.
• Do not swim with open wounds as they could become infected.
• Ensure that all swimmers and supervisors understand and follow pool safety rules.
• Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and encourage others to do the same.
• Never play in drainage or irrigation canals and do not use them for recreational purposes.
• Be aware of strong currents and debris that make river swimming potentially dangerous.
• If boating (canoeing, kayaking, rafting, etc.), always wear a floatation device.
• Never boat or swim alone.
• Watch for changes in weather. Stay away from water if thunder or lightning is near.
• Avoid diving into unknown waters as they may be shallow and could cause injury.
• When supervising children at play avoid distractions such as reading, texting, gaming or social media use.
• Have a cell phone handy and immediately call 911 in an emergency.